Vessel
Pampiniform plexus
Testicular venous return intertwined with the artery
High-yield
The plexus provides both venous drainage and countercurrent heat exchange. A varicocele is enlargement of this venous network.
Overview
The pampiniform plexus surrounds the testicular artery in the spermatic cord. Closely opposed arterial and venous channels exchange heat, helping lower the temperature of incoming blood. The veins progressively converge toward the abdominal testicular vein.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Arises from veins leaving the testis and epididymis.
- Course
- Surrounds the testicular artery in the cord, converging into larger channels near the deep inguinal ring; vein number varies.
- Branches
- Communicates with deferential and cremasteric venous pathways.
- Supplies
- Returns gonadal blood and exchanges heat with incoming testicular arterial blood.
- Drains to
- Continues through testicular veins, usually to the left renal vein or directly to the vena cava on the right.
Clinical correlation
Left-sided varicoceles predominate because of several anatomical and hemodynamic factors. A new, large or nonreducing varicocele can raise concern about impaired proximal drainage; right-sided location alone does not establish a tumor.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the pampiniform plexus originate?
Arises from veins leaving the testis and epididymis.
What does the pampiniform plexus supply?
The pampiniform plexus supplies the returns gonadal blood and exchanges heat with incoming testicular arterial blood.
Where does the pampiniform plexus drain to?
The pampiniform plexus drains to the continues through testicular veins, usually to the left renal vein or directly to the vena cava on the right.
What are the branches of the pampiniform plexus?
Branches of the pampiniform plexus include the communicates with deferential and cremasteric venous pathways.